Three possible Yankees Injuries that could derail Bronx Bombers' 2023 season

The regular season is still a few weeks away, yet the New York Yankees have already begun to face injuries that could change the team's trajectory this season. One of the team's major offseason moves was landing pitcher Carlos Rodon in free agency, however, the superstar pitcher is set to begin his first season with the club on the injury list.

Rodon underwent an MRI on Wednesday that revealed a mild strain of the left brachioradialis, a superficial forearm muscle. The injury is particularly concerning as the pitcher missed time last season with the San Francisco Giants due to the exact same injury. He also underwent Tommy John surgery in 2019, which will cause the Yankees to be extra cautious with Rodon's injury.

"Carlos Rodón will either be back in April or need Tommy John. No in between" - Talkin' Yanks

While Rodon's injury is a concern for the club, the team should be fine moving forward. However, there are three players that the team will need to keep healthy if they want to win their first World Series title since 2009. Here is a deeper look at the three most important players that New York will need to keep healthy.

The Yankees need to keep Aaron Judge on the field if they want to contend for the World Series

This one may be the most obvious choice, but if New York is going to hoist the Commissioner's Trophy at the end of the season, Aaron Judge will play a major factor. The reigning American League MVP was a revelation for the Bronx Bombers last season, setting a new club record for home runs with 62.

"Here's video of an Aaron Judge home run. By the way, if you like Aaron Judge homers, you should pre-order "62!" - Bryan Hoch

Aside from his immense power, these home runs were the result of Judge remaining healthy for the entire season. The 157 games last season were the most of his career, surpassing the 150 games he played only twice in his career. One could hardly blame the 6'7" outfielder for missing time, but if he misses time this season, it would be devastating for the Yankees.

Giancarlo Stanton should be massive for New York this season

Similar to Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton is a mammoth human being with immense power and a history of injury. While Stanton may no longer be able to perform at the MVP level he had previously in his career, he is still a major factor for New York.

If Stanton were to miss an extended amount of time, the Yankees would be without one of the most powerful batters in the Majors. Stanton's injury seems more likely this season as manager Aaron Boone has previously mentioned that he may be spending more time in the outfield this year.

"The move will keep Stanton out of a DH role that he feels does not give him the best chance to contribute for a full season" A deeper dive into why Aaron Judge in left field and Giancarlo Stanton in right field makes sense (via@martinonyc) - SNY

Gerrit Cole needs to remain healthy for the already-depleted Yankee rotation

Following the injury to Carlos Rodon, the pressure on Gerrit Cole has only increased. The five-time All-Star will once again anchor the Yankees' pitching rotation entering the new campaign.

However, if he sustains a serious injury, New York could be in trouble as Rodon is already injured and fellow starter Luis Severino is not a reliable bet to remain healthy.

"Gerrit Cole through two Spring Training starts: 6.1 IP, 0 ER, 11 K, 3 H, 1 BB, 1 HBP" - Talkin' Yanks